Reason #412 - Today

Today is opening day, and, of course, we have rain and 44 degrees. According to the Plain Dealer, since 1968, the Indians are 3-4 in openers when the temperature is in the 30s and 5-7 when it's in the 40s. And those stats don't include the 2007 opener that had to be played indoors in Milwaukee due to a blizzard in Cleveland. I don't know what's worse - the Indians' opening day record in cold weather or the number of cold opening days we've had since 1968.

Reason #411 - Opening Day 2009

Friday's forecast is for 42 degrees and showers. Yes, it seems to rain, sleet or snow every year at this time. Definition of insanity - doing what you've always done and expecting a different result.

Reason #410 - Winter Storm in the Area

The only way the Cleveland Indians avoided another opening day snowout was by opening the season today in Texas. That's embarrassing - again.

Reason #409 - Final Four

Detroit's Ford Field is hosting the NCAA Men's Final Four - expect record crowds and record revenues. In Detroit. In early April. Because they have a roof on their stadium. Did I mention that even Detroit is able to host a Final Four? Cleveland, no roof, no chance.

Reason #408 - Rock Hall Induction Ceremonies

The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Induction Ceremonies are in Cleveland this week because this is where they belong because this is where the Rock Hall is. Unfortunately, the ceremonies are in old Public Hall and they won't be back in town for several more years. A dome on Cleveland Stadium, which just happens to be next to the Rock Hall, would make that the ideal venue for the ceremonies every year.

Reason #407 - Longer NFL Season

The NFL is considering an 18-game regular season by 2010 - that means more regular-season games in summer or winter, or both. Better start working on the roof immediately.

Reason #406 - Sports Fans Like Roofs

I recently attended 12 basketball games in six days - and I never worried about the weather. Roofs are wonderful, and they work just fine for baseball and football, too.